Cabinet Approves Bill To Provide Statutory Recognition To Trade Unions

The government on Wednesday approved amendment to the Trade Unions Act, 1926 to make provisions regarding recognition of trade unions.

The present act provides for only registration of trade unions. However, the recognition of trade unions is governed by guidelines in the 'Code of Discipline' evolved in 1958, voluntarily accepted by employers and employees.

According to the statement released by the government, these amendments will:

• Facilitate recognition of trade unions at central and state level
• Ensure true representation of workers in tripartite bodies
• Check on the arbitrary nomination of workers' representatives by the government
• Reduce litigations and industrial unrest.

The proposed Bill will ensure that the nomination of workers' representatives in tripartite bodies by the government will become more transparent. The trade unions so recognised will be accountable in maintaining industrial harmony.